Train mad schoolboy becomes conductor for the day

A 12-year-old railway enthusiast was given a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes with London Northwestern Railway to celebrate his birthday.

Charlie Berwick, from Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire, tested his skills as a conductor for the day on the route between Tring, Watford Junction and London Euston.

Getting to experience first-hand the day to day of a real conductor, Charlie had the chance to explore the cab, give important announcements over the tannoy system and greet passengers.

After learning that Charlie’s birthday wish was to learn the ropes on board one of London Northwestern Railway’s newest trains, the train operator organised the unique experience with senior conductor Tom Hewitt.

Charlie’s mother, Jennifer Berwick, said: “As a toddler, Charlie would squeal with delight each time a train arrived at our local platform. He loves everything about the railway, from train simulator games and model railways to train spotting.

“Living near our local railway station, we always know when Charlie and his friends are there as we hear all the trains honk their horns for them as they go through!”

Having previously struggled at school, Charlie’s love of trains has helped him make like-minded friends. His teachers even weave railway themes into lesson plans to support his learning, such as using timetables to illustrate maths concepts.

Charlie Berwick said: “I’d love to work on the railway when I grow up, so getting to see how it all works up close has been amazing. It’s been the best birthday gift - I feel really lucky.”

Shantel Carty, community engagement manager at LNR, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Charlie on board and have him try out as a conductor for the day. I was so impressed by his railway knowledge. He was reading train diagrams with ease and handled announcements like a pro. I’m sure he’s got a bright future in the industry ahead of him.”

The journey was carried out on a new electric LNR train from the company’s Class 730/2 fleet, which first entered into service this summer on routes to and from London Euston, boosting capacity by 20%.